Community Tree Watch — Tree Canopy Under Threat at 40 Church St

Six More Just Down the Street

Joseph Veloce, the builder of the 6 townhomes at Church and Wilson (15 Church), had an application before the Committee of Adjustment to pretty much duplicate that project with 6 street townhomes at 40 Church Street. That land now has a duplex which would be demolished if this plan is approved. This lot backs onto the lawn bowling club.

Matt Johnson, the planner hired for this project, asked the Committee to table the application to some future date when it came up on the August 14 meeting agenda. It seems Mr Veloce wants to “consult” with City staff.

Tree Canopy in Extreme Danger

If this project is approved it is virtually certain at least 12 magnificent trees will be removed. There is no way to add 3 driveways on Lodor without that happening, or if a few are left construction will likely kill them. These trees run the depth of the property on Lodor Street. There are other trees on the property itself that will likely suffer the same fate. We believe one of those trees shared with the next door lot is a protected butternut.

The photo shows the massive size of these trees which you can judge from the car parked under them. Preservation of our tree canopy is absolutely essential as they are the “lungs” that clear our air and would be “replaced” by trees that are twigs in comparison. Large historic trees also create the neighbourhood ambiance that makes heritage areas so special. On top of the other development matters we need to ensure that trees are preserved and developers work around them, not just clearcut their lots.

Big Fines for Cutting Down Trees

While Ancaster Village Heritage Community (AVHC) is not aware of Mr Veloce removing any trees illegally, there are examples of developers who have. In 2018 Jim McNiven was fined $420,000 for clear cutting the land where the new 380 unit Parkland seniors facility is being built without permits. Mr McNiven sold the land Parkland is being built on to the developers without the trees. Many of us know of other places where trees have been removed probably without permits.

The fate of the trees at 40 Church Street is a major concern of the residents in Maywood.

AVHC is asking all of us who live nearby to keep a careful watch to ensure there is no activity regarding these trees until the City has approved whatever plan Mr Veloce brings forward. AVHC will advocate strongly at any City hearings to ensure the trees remain.

Veloce Luxury Homes website claims “we mix eco friendly habits and new technology in every home we create.” Surely that starts with leaving trees that have survived generations in place and safe and development created around them. Chainsaws are NOT eco-friendly.